September 2016

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers | September 2016

Splash BEAT THE HEAT

KEEPING COOL + HAVING FUN

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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AT VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS, WE NOURISH HEALTHY LIVES

SEPTEMBER 2016

Editorial

T

exas heat is legendary. As I write this letter, Houston is under a heat advisory and it’s topping 100 degrees today (early August). As a transplant to Texas in the early 90’s, I consider myself used to the temperatures here but each time it gets steamy hot, I’m just as bothered by it as ever. So, if we can’t get to a point where we are used to the heat and not battling it (probably because we live in A/C most of the time), then we are challenged to find strategies to cool off.

Same goes for our pets. Imagine how hot they are wearing a fur coat.

However, on the positive side for them, they can jump right into the water without having to change clothes! From the athletic sport of dock diving to swimming pool play or ocean ball retrieval, one way for dogs to cool down is to hit the water.

In our feature story, we explore ways for you and your pet to end the hot and steamy season with a splash.

In addition to water activities, we also suggest some of other adventures and outings that are fun ways to get out and about and do some

Issue 8: Volume 17 www.houstonpettalk.com

exploring. Summer is technically over because the kids are back in school so why not take this opportunity to have some "pet time"?

Also in this issue, we have several informative health articles. VERGI 24/7 Emergency Hospital explores how you can tell when your pet might be in pain (because pets can be quite adept at hiding their discomfort). Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists details for us important information concerning deterioration of vision in our pets. Plus, we introduce you to VIP PetCare, an innovative provider of health services.

For both convenience and cost reduction, VIP PetCare offers services such as vaccinations and microchipping at community locations.

By not “building a hospital”, they can pass those savings on to you.

September also marks the beginning of the big “gala” season and the first one to get the party started is Houston PetSet, whose mission is to raise money and then gift that money to various pet related charities based on an extensive review process. PetSet has supported many

Splish Splash Not only is jumping in a big pool of water a great way to cool off, it's also a fun canine sport. Our cover dog, Sacha, shows off her skill at Houston Dog Ranch's brand new Dock Jumping facility. Learn more about the sport and other fun ways to end the summer with a splash in our feature story.

Cover Photo: David Schwartz Photography.

pet causes in Houston so please help them help pets. Check out the details and who their special guest of honor will be this year on page 50.

Get your ticket right away to attend this fun and valuable event.

Finally, if you haven’t downloaded the FREE and easy to use App from our new business listing and event site, PetTalk GoFetch, be sure to download it today for iPhone or Android plus checkout the website, www.pettalkgofetch.com. You can find businesses located near you with a zip code search or search on by category. You can also find the latest fun events by date or category.

There are lots of great events coming up in September and October, traditionally the busiest pet event months of the year, so download the App and have all the information right at your fingertips!

Next month, our cover model will be the winner of our PetTalk GoFetch Cover Contest so be sure to pick up a copy and check out the winner and a few other entries.

HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 www.HoustonPetTalk.com Art Director: ANDREW BURWELL Editor's Assistant: REBECCA BURWELL-BOTELLO © Copyright 2016. Reproduction or use without written permission of articles, editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited. Houston PetTalk does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Houston PetTalk does not endorse any specific product or service contained herein; we do encourage you to support our advertisers whenever possible. All photos ©copyright depositphotos unless otherwise stated.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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WHERE

IN THE

WORLD

IS PETTALK? You never know where on this planet you might find a PetTalk reader enjoying their copy!

Snap a picture of one of our readers and send it to info@houstonpettalk.com.

iFly, Houston You truly never know where you will find a copy of PetTalk. Spotted at iFly Houston, reader Rebecca Mandelos found a creative way to read her copy!

Shown here with instructors Jon Walker and Emmeline Granger.

Grand Park Royal Resort, Cozumel Mexico Sheri Norton catching some rays and reading PetTalk.

What a great way to relax!

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Henrietta On:

I

f you’ve been following my column over the last several years, you’ll certainly remember my French cousin, Henri (who can forget a Frenchman? That would be like forgetting French Fries…impossible!). Henri is a Michelin rated chef.

Or is that Firestone rated?

I can never remember, but anyway, he graduated from the famed French cooking school, Le Corgi Bleu, and this man knows how to put some chop lickin’ love in a pot!

Now, like all good Frenchies, he also knows a thing or two about style and where to shop for the latest fashions.

I called Henri pleading for help after one of my “friends” asked me if I got my fashion advice from a Red Tick Coonhound. She’s the kind of friend I would like to lure to a garbage dumpster with promises of McDonald’s leftovers with the sole purpose of trapping her inside for the next trash pickup. I think we all have a “friend” like that. She’s a Chihuahua of course…small, cute and bitchy.

However rude Taco Bellista’s comments were, I did take a double look in the mirror and made a note to self: Get help! So Henri agreed to a Henrietta Fashion Makeover in

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exchange for me agreeing to taste his latest chocolate soufflé creation. Wow, that was a hard trade. Duh. First we perused fashion magazines including Dogue, DoggyStyle, Dogmapolitan and New York Canine Couture. My first realization was that I would need a stretching machine to reshape my body should I have any

Ruff Lauren and I love his signature Polo styles or what I like to call “High On The Hog Ranch Style”, so we found the Ruff Lauren section at Neiman Barkus as our first stop.

Henri agreed that the classic Ruff Lauren blazer, tailored white shirt and widelegged wool pant

aspirations of wearing a single piece of clothing shown on those glossy pages. Henri comforted me, “Dahrling, don’t be deezcouraged wheez your boody. Ve men luv a beet of a bump on zee rump.” I love Henri even more now.

Next, we headed to a few boutiques to check out the real clothes, not the runway fashions that look like they were either brought to earth by aliens or are part of a scheme to slowly drive all fat women crazy.

I’ve always been a fan of

was a good look for me or in his own words, “Oui, Oui, that eez magnifique on you. Eet makez you appear taller and sleemer.” I think I’m not going to be offended by that comment.

After a day of shopping, we returned home with my classic Ruff Lauren outfit, an Yves Saint Bernard ball gown, a Furrberry tote, two incredible Roberto Pawvalli creations, a Vera Wag dress, endless pairs of Jimmy Choo shoes and a maxed-out credit card.

You may recall that the last time Henri helped me, we were selecting more “au naturel” foods for my diet in exchange for me promising to teach him to French kiss. Yes, it’s blasphemy that a French man cannot French kiss.

Because I’m from West Virginia where kissing cousins is common place, I thought I would be able to handle it but when I saw Henri open his mouth, close his eyes and drool, I just couldn’t do it. So we recruited Lilly the Labrador who has an enormous tongue and would not even need to get especially close to Henri to kiss him. It worked out great because Lilly got to carve another name in her kissing tree and I was spared a fate worse than death.

So today as we celebrated my fashion makeover with a glass of Dog Perignon, Lilly joined us so that she could kiss Henri and make sure he learned his lessons.

Let’s just say they both enjoyed the review session… as I was leaving, I heard Henri say “On va chez toi ou chez moi?” For those of you that dress like you got your fashion advice from a Red Tick Coonhound, that’s French for “your place or mine.”

Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorized by Desiree Lonsway

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September is

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The Dish September 2016 For the full list of events and news: www.houstonpettalk.com

H

ey Party Animals...Did you know you can add your own pet related event to our event calendar online? Go to www.pettalkgofetch.com/event.

Announcements Qualifying and Training Calls for Therapy Pet Pals of Texas The Woodlands/Houston Chapter of Therapy Pet Pals of Texas is looking for volunteers with calm, friendly and obedient dogs to provide pet therapy to elderly and ill people at local healthcare facilities around The Woodlands / Tomball/ Spring/Conroe and Montgomery County area.

The non-profit organization will be taking reservations until September 2, 2016. www.therapypetpals.org

#1 New Release in Pet Food and Nutrition on Amazon $9.94 with Prime Shipping If you're looking to make DIY dog treats, Shaggy Dog Eats! is #1 on Amazon in the Pet Food and Nutrition category. Christy Bright has created 24 great and simple recipes -- some of which have been featured in previous issues of Houston PetTalk Magazine. Full digital archives available on the Houston PetTalk Magazine website. www.amazon.com

Both Fierce and Fabulous, the Annual PetSet Soiree is September 9! Register ASAP to get your ticket or table.

DIY Dog Treat Book Tops Amazon.com Charts

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Events 9.9.16 Houston PetSet Fierce & Fabulous Soirée See page 50.

9.10.16 Houston’s Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists Stars In Nat Geo Wild’s New Series “Animal ER” Saturdays at 9pm beginning Sept. 10 on Nat Geo WILD. Local veterinary hospital, Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists (GCVS), enters the world of TV in September! Tune in to go behind the scenes at GCVS, one of the most respected and busiest animal hospitals in the world. Yes, we are Houston Proud!

9.17.16 Mutts Meows and Margaritas 6:30pm-10pm, Tickets Starting at $45 Mo's restaurant 1801 Post Oak Blvd, 77056 Join Friends of BARC for another fun annual gala featuring all the mutts, meows, and margaritas you can handle. www.friendsofbarc.org

9.17.16 BCO Presents: Picasso’s by Paws Painting Party & Fundraiser 2pm-4:30pm, Suggested $10-$20 Donation Urban Tails 1618 Webster St. Houston, TX 77003 Calling all Houston Dog Lovers & their canines. Bark and you

shall receive! Picasso's

by Paws Painting Party & Fundraiser is back by many popular tail wags. Join Bayou City Outdoors, SNAP, PetTalk & Urban Tails for Picasso's by Paws, a fundraiser for Houston SNAP (Spay-Neuter Assistance Program).

Representatives will be assisting the dogs in bringing out their inner Picasso with safe, water based paints and canvases.

Every dog paints their own masterpiece.

Display it on the fridge or hang it in the living room, this is barking good art! After painting, there will be a rinse and wading pool station.

You'll go home with a doggy bag of goodies and there will be some doggone good door prizes to be won! www.bit.ly/1OdvJEW

9.17.16 Ride a Hog, Save a Dog 9am, $35 Harley-Davidson 3636 E. Sam Houston Pkwy, 77505 Join SAVE Rescue Coalition for this unique event featuring a 50 mile police escorted motorcycle ride, vendors, adoptions, vaccinations, auctions, raffles, and more fun than a barrel of bikers. www.saverescue.org

ASK THE

VET

Jennifer Hennessey, DVM, CVJ Animal ER of NW Houston, Owner www.animalERnwh.com

My dog is rubbing his eye daily and it always appears red. What do I treat his eye with at home to make him feel better?

-Ms. Owen Dogs and cats both can have many minor irritations or even allergies causing red, itchy eyes.

However, the problem is that while your pet rubs the sensitive eye, new issues like serious ulceration can develop. A veterinary evaluation is recommend prior to administering any home care. Store eye drop solutions can contain chemicals that burn or cause more irritation. Avoid human eye products and have your pet's eye checked first for bigger problems and hope that only eye drops will be the decided curative care.

Why does your dog pant? And why the wet puppy nose? Ask your pet questions for Dr Jennifer Hennessey at Facebook/AnimalERnwh to see if answers you have been curious about appear in our column each month!

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he Sugar Land Skeeters showed crowd goers how to have a BOW WOW good time with their furry friends in tow at the recent Bark in the Park event in August.

Baseball loving pet owners enjoyed the game as well as a pre-game show featuring Olate Dogs. Be sure to watch for Bark in the Park again next season! ©Jacob Vyner

©Megan Murnane

©Megan Murnane

©Nature Dog Photography

©Nature Dog Photography

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©Jacob Vyner

©Jacob Vyner

©Nature Dog Photography

to

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MAKE IT A SEPTEMBER

TO REMEMBER: SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER WITH A

Splash I

n Texas, the Dog Days of Summer keep right on marching through

September. Technically, summer is

over because school is back in session but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some end of summer fun with your pet! From keeping cool in a swimming pool to learning a new sport like Dock Diving, we offer some adventurous ideas for you and your pet to beat the heat, hit the trails or simply settle down and have a cool drink. There’s no time like the present so get out there and enjoy the last vestige of summer fun!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Water + Retrieve = Happy Dog Dock Diving at Houston Dog Ranch: Jumping For Joy

W

ant a fun way for you and your dog to beat the Houston heat?

Give the sport of Dock Diving a try!

At Houston Dog Ranch, we have launched into this exhilarating sport with the construction of a regulation size, competition dock and pool.

If you're not familiar with Dock Diving, it's a dog sport where a dog runs at top speed and jumps off of the end of a dock to retrieve a toy thrown into a pool by its owner. The objective is for the dog to jump as far out into the pool as possible. There are also other disciplines that involve vertical jumping, and speed retrieval.

We were inspired a few years ago when a very special client named Beringer got started in Dock Diving.

We were amazed at how happy she looked when she was jumping. Ber’s

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was always up for anything. She and her owner had done many different dog sports, but this one was a perfect fit for them. Beringer even went on to win competitions! We knew right away that we wanted to bring that same joy to the lives of other dogs and their owners.

Dock Diving is beneficial in so many ways. It strengthens some of the most the elemental areas of a dog’s life. It’s great exercise, reinforces obedience training, improves focus and impulse control, and builds confidence. Most importantly for us at HDR, we wanted to create another opportunity for owners to build a strong bond with their dog.

The team must work together with coordinated timing of the run and throw for a successful jump. This sport is built on the foundation of a

strong bond between dog and owner.

The best part of Dock Diving is any dog that loves to fetch, and loves the water, can do it. Some dogs take to it right away, while others need a slow introduction to the water. The key is to work at the dog’s comfort level. Our programs focus on having fun, however we do cover the rules, and different aspects of Dock Diving competitions. We even have a mini competition on the last day of class to give students and idea of what a competition is like.

If you want to have fun training and spend some quality time with your best friend, then you need to get your feet wet and jump into the pool at HDR. We have a program to fit your interest. Just want to dip your toes in the water? We offer swim lessons, complete with a life jacket, for dogs who are new to swimming. Ready to jump in? For dogs comfortable with the water we offer private lessons, and Intro to Dock Diving group classes. Looking to launch into a competition? We can get you ready for that too! Our pool and dock meet all of the regulation standards for competitions.

All you need to stay cool and have fun with your dog is a toy and a towel!

Other Dock Diving Facilities in Houston Meadowlake Pet Resort & Training Center, www.meadowlakepetresort. com, 13500 Furman Road Houston, TX 77047.

Rummy’s Beach Club, www.rummysbeachclub.com, 22111 Fields Ln, Spring, TX 77389. Rummy’s dock diving is for beginners only.

© David Schwartz Photography

By: Tonia Whilden, Houston Dog Ranch, www.houstondogranch.com

© Evin Thayer

GO Kayaking Canine Country Club

Supervised Water Play If your pup isn’t up to jumping off a dock but would love to play in water or swim, there are plenty of pet resorts that offer swimming pools or splash pads. Just like the water feature pictured here at Canine Country Club, splash pads are becoming quite popular, offering plenty of sprouting water to keep dogs entertained. For a list of facilities that offer swimming or water features, visit www.pettalkgofetch.com and view category: Pet Resorts With Swimming or Water Features.

Therapeutic Warm Water Swimming at Rummy's Beach Club A unique experience awaits your pet at Rummy’s Beach Club, a dog facility in Spring, Texas that offers a way to beat the heat, work on a fitness or rehabilitation plan, and simply have some fun! Bring your dog to Rummy’s Beach Club for private one-hour warm water swim sessions.

Rummy’s pool was custom designed for warm water canine fitness. It's a safe, clean way for dogs to stay in shape after surgery, after intense rehab at your vet’s facility, to lose weight, increase endurance for agility or flyball or just to have a good time! Rummy’s pool has NO STEPS in or around the pool and you can park right next to the beach entry. And here’s the really cool part…owners can swim with their dogs!

Visit: www.rummysbeachclub.com or give them a call at 713-446-3805.

Kayaking and Paddle Boarding With Your Pup If outdoor adventure or a nature-oriented excursion is more your style, take your pup kayaking and enjoy the exercise and scenery.

Be sure to equip your dog with a doggie life jacket for safety. Here are a few choices for a fun boating day:

Riva Row Boathouse in the Woodlands Rent kayaks in the Woodlands for $15-20 for the first hour, then $5 per consecutive hour. You can travel anywhere on the connected Woodlands Waterways, and there is plenty to see. Remember to keep an eye out for herons which can sometimes be seen near the boathouse and surrounding areas. The Woodlands Dog Park Club has donated life vests for all sizes of dogs, and there is no extra fee for furry companions. www.thewoodlandstx.com/rivarowboathouse

288 Lake You can rent a kayak or a paddleboard on 288 lake, and enjoy the views for $30, plus $5 per dog. We talked with 288 Lake and learned of a new activity we have never heard of... paddleboard yoga with your dog! www.288lake.net

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Hill Country Trip: Austin the artsy scene which gives Austin such a great vibe by visiting HOPE Outdoor Gallery. This gallery provides local artists the opportunity to display their work in one of Austin's biggest outdoor settings.

Get Some Grub

H

ead to Austin for a weekend adventure! Now that school is back in session, the crowds are minimal and your pup will enjoy the change of routine and scenery.

Indoor Glamping at Lone Star Court at the Domain A truly nostalgic choice for petfriendly accommodations in Austin is the Lone Star Court. If you yearn for the bygone days, set your sights on a stay at this motorcourt of yesteryear.

Their friendly staff invites you into a huge multi-story interior, fully open to the sky. Campfires are lit nightly, with live music and a wonderful swimming pool open late, plus a great fully stocked "watering hole" for any beverage you can think of.

Rooms at Lone Star Court don't disappoint, replete with sliding barn doors and each room includes a full sized vintage-style Smeg refrigerator filled with delights. Free breakfast tops this treat off properly with a full buffet.

Advance registration is required for pets. Visit www.lonestarcourt.com to find out more details.

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Take a Dip at Barton Springs 2101 Barton Springs Rd. After a long day of road tripping, it's great to stop and enjoy the beautiful views in and around Texas' capital city. While pets are not allowed in the maintained pool area, there are areas just outside the bounds with great natural pools to explore and pets are more than welcome. Stop in for a swim with your pup and enjoy some fun in the sun at this gorgeous free location, just 20 minutes from downtown Austin.

TIP: Avoid parking fees from Zilker Park by coming to a stop in the nearby gravel parking lot next to the baseball field at 1078 Robert E Lee Road.

A few other ideas for an adventure with your dog include touring Zilker Botanical Gardens (leashed pets only) or pay homage to

Of course by now you’ve worked up quite a Texas appetite! A few choices to try that have pet-friendly patios include: The Austin Terrier (specializing in Pizza), located at 3435 Greystone Drive or Red’s Porch located at 3508 S. Lamar Blvd. We hear they have a great sunset view so keep that in mind and arrive in time to take advantage of the sun going down.

We know it’s hard to leave Austin but remember you can always go back!

On your way home, if you are traveling Rt. 71, check out the Back Porch BBQ in La Grange. It’s highly reviewed and pet-friendly, located at 1602 N Jefferson. The perfect stop for a true Texas lunch break. Reviewers love the pulled pork tacos, brisket, and burgers. If you're in the mood for a belly buster and have time for a food coma, check out the Boss Hog Burger which features their popular pulled pork.

Galveston Awaits

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© Galveston Island Convention Bureau

ith the Gulf of Mexico less than an hour from Houston, there’s no reason to not take a weekend or even an entire week to go unwind with your pooch in the sea air. No plane rides, no long car rides…just relaxation, good food, long beach walks, pet-friendly accommodations and beautiful sunsets.

Once you cross the causeway bridge, you can smell the unmistakable sea air and immediately feel yourself start to relax. If you’ve decided to stay for awhile and prefer the comforts of home, Sand N’ Sea Properties offers many pet-friendly homes for rent. Located at the entrance to Pirates Beach, Sand N’ Sea Properties has been renting vacation homes on the island and today manages approximately 145 vacation homes. Visit www.sandnsea.com for a list of pet-friendly properties.

Another choice for pet-friendly lodging if you don’t need a private house is La Quinta Inn & Suites.

They do not charge a pet fee or have

a size limitation. Once settled in, you can choose from a walk on the beach, visiting the dog park within Lindale Park, located at 400 Marine Drive) or get adventurous and go on a kayaking tour with your pup on

board. There are several kayak rental companies in Galveston and if you have a water-loving hound, you can even try Stand Up Paddling together.

Be sure you and your pet both wear safety gear and sunscreen (yes, pets need sunscreen too).

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite for some tasty local seafood, check out one of these pet-friendly patio options: ❖ Olympia the Grill at Pier 21 (this is where I went with my dog and they were very welcoming) ❖ Brickhouse Tavern + Tap on the Seawall ❖ Yaga’s Cafe on the Strand One last stop on the way home will complete your trip. A visit to the Haak Winery in Sata Fe, www. haakwine.com, where you can taste the wines, view the beautiful vineyard and your dog will love the open spaces.

Find events, dining, lodging and more at www.galveston.com.

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Paws On The Patio Pet-Friendly dining at Ouisie’s Table.

them at 3939 San Felipe, 77027 or online at www.ouisiestable.com.

Some of our favorite petfriendly patios: Houston: ❖ ❖ ❖

❖

❖

12. Petite Sweets Boheme - Try the Lobster pizza!

Ouisie's Table - Quaint and peaceful with stellar food.

Cottonwood - Lots of fun games to play like horseshoes or Jenga.

West Alabama Ice House - Always voted a fan fave by PetTalk readers!

The Woodlands: ❖

❖

Blue Mug Cafe - Awesome food!

Tacos are super special and the Lemon Basil Shrimp & Spinach Salad rocks.

Molly's Pub - 40+ Beers on Tap

Sugar Land: ❖

© Evin Thayer

Doggie Dining: Pet Friendly Patio at Ouisie's Table

E

louise Adams Jones opened the doors of Ouisie's Table in River Oaks nearly 50 years ago (with a short interim between locations.) Specializing in sophisticated southern foods with Texas and Gulf Coast influences, their comfort foods and ambiance have made for many a special meal. Now with their newly acquired pet patio permit you can make memories with your best four legged friends too!

Those who have been to Ouisie's understand what a nice, quiet experience it is. If you are looking to relax at dinner or lunch this is the place to be. The motto of "handmade without shortcuts" still stands after almost 5 decades of practice, and the location on San Felipe is great.

For your companion, Ouisie's offers doggy water bowls and uses pet

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friendly cleaning products so there are no harsh chemicals on the concrete patio where your furry pal will spend most of his time. There are also hands-free sanitizer dispensers so it's fast and easy to wash up for dinner after petting your pup. Many people have asked -- what do you do about doody? The staff keeps pooper scoopers on hand in case you feel compelled to pick up, or they are happy to take care of it for you (but as a responsible pet owner, we are sure you have waste pick-up bags with you).

Ouisie’s reports they have recently partnered with different sponsors including Sit Means Sit Dog Training, Blue Buffalo Pet Food, Friends of BARC and others to host events so be sure to watch the calender for other petthemed opportunities. It's the perfect place to meet up for yappy hour with your favorite dog owners, so make plans to check out for yourself. Visit

Ruggles Green Bistro - Located in the Town Center where there is a huge grassy area for pets.

Katy: ❖

Dish Society - Located in LaCenterra so plenty of grassy areas. They are open for breakfast!

Clear Lake/Webster: ❖

❖

Jackie's Brickhoust - Located on the water at Marina Bay Dr., dogs are very welcomed by the staff.

Kahuna Joe's Hawaiian Shaved Ice - Perfect for a hot day and your pup would love some ice too!

Spring: ❖

Bruster's Real Ice Cream - located on Louetta, they provide people and pups with a delish sundae.

Kemah: ❖ ❖

Jackie's Brickhouse Bakkhus Taverna - located on 6th St., known for good Greek food.

Pearland: ❖

King's Biergarten - Don't miss the live Polka Band!

Make It A Date: Recurring Pet Friendly Events

Skip A Beat

T White Linen Nights in the Heights

ired of slimy tennis balls? For those canines that get the ultimate thrill out of fetching from water, Kurgo’s Skipping Stones are the answer. They skip effortlessly across the water, they won’t hurt your dog’s teeth, they dry quickly, and they withstand wear and tear. Basically, they ROCK! Get yours at Pampered Pet Inn, 2411 Bissonnet, www.pamperedpetinn.com.

Every 1st Saturday on the 200 and 300 blocks of 19th Street, 6-10pm. An open air art and music celebration with local Houston artists and vendors.

Every 4th Friday at Bagby Park (415 Gray Street) from 4:30-6:30pm, meet up with neighbors and local pet owners for treats, giveaways, and contests.

Discovery Green Flea Market by Night Every 3rd Saturday at Discovery Green Park downtown from 6-10pm, this market features an array of artful kitsch, vintage items, mid-century modern furniture, recycled and repurposed items and collectibles. Dogs must be leashed.

Visit a Local Treat Truck One of PetTalk's favorite local Treat Tucks is Paw Paw's Goodies. Their highly recognizable truck, featuring the company's doggie ambassador Bella, travels around town visiting various locations giving your pup a chance to get his or her paws on some savory treats! Paw Paw's visits dog parks, pet businesses and events.

To find out where your dog can get a thrill akin to a human visiting the ice cream truck, visit their Facebook page for weekly details on their schedule. www.facebook.com/pawpawsgoodies

Heat stroke is serious.

Watch for signs!

T

he Texas heat is unforgiving and our pets don't always realize when to turn off the "on" button.

They will keep running or chasing a ball often times until it is too late and they are in the danger zone of overheating. Look for these warning signs: ❖ Panting. ❖ Dehydration. ❖ Excessive drooling ❖ Increased body temperature - above 103° F (39° C) ❖ Reddened gums and moist tissues of the body. ❖ Production of only small amounts of urine or no urine. ❖ Sudden (acute) kidney failure. ❖ Rapid heart rate.

Pets cannot sweat as humans do so you will often times not realize they are too hot. Do not let your pet overheat. When in doubt, err on the safe side. If you see any of the signs, call your veterinarian immediately. It is life-threatening!

© Desiree Lonsway

Yappy Hour in Bagby Park

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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TAKE A RIDE

A Great Way To Enjoy Nature

By Michelle Mantor

D

o you get tired of the same ‘ol routine? It’s easy to get into a rut but give yourself and your family a chance to break out and try something new. You could even make it a monthly goal to expand your horizons and find something out of the ordinary to try each month.

If you love the outdoors and animals, a good place to start would be horseback riding. If you’re like me, I have a healthy fear of horses so it’s not only good exercise and a chance to enjoy nature, but it also pushes my boundaries of comfortability, making me grow a bit in my confidence.

Houston and surrounding areas have plenty of choices for trail rides.

Heck, this is TEXAS…of course there are lots of horses! You can choose

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to stay in Houston or the suburbs of Pearland, Katy, Sugar Land, Spring and so on or you can venture out for the day to the forest of Huntsville State Park or the beaches of Galveston. Riding in the surf is truly a freeing experience!

There is definitely something for everyone, so check out the list we've created for you:

1. Galveston Galveston Island Horse and Pony Rides 1923 Boddeker Rd77550 409.256.0663 www.gihpr.com

2. Surfside Beach Beach Bum Horse Rides 979.373.8789

3. Huntsville State Park 2E Stables 210.861.0105 www.2estables.com

4. Humble Cypress Trails 21415 Cypresswood Drive Humble, TX 77338 281.446.7232 www.horseridingfun.com

5. Houston The Spread 14108 Bridgeport Rd. Houston, TX 77047 832.477.6790 www.the-spread.net

We Haven't Forgotten Our Feline Friends!

A

lthough outdoor festivals, swimming, hiking and other adventures aren't necessarily cat-friendly activities, it doesn't mean we haven't thought about some outdoor pleasures for our cat lovers and their feline companions! Most cats enjoy outdoor stimuli and it's an opportunity for them to experience a variety of smells and investigate the surroundings.

Keeping safety in mind, be sure your cat is secure in your yard and cannot escape. Once that very important criteria has been met, find ways to involve your cat in your outdoor chores or hobbies. If you like to

Cool Cat: Frozen Treat With Healthy Ingredients

garden, let your cat be your "helper" or if you are cleaning up around the patio area, let your cat explore while you work. Better yet, simply sit outside with a cup of tea and enjoy spending time just hanging out.

If your cat gets bored easily, you can spice things up with some play, from laster pointers to teaching your cat agility. Yes, agility for cats is a real thing! To learn more about training, including the use of clicker training for agility as well as equipment and instructions, visit the Cat Fanciers Association website: www.agility.cfa. org/clicker-training.shtml.

Watch for more on this feature story at

While enjoying the outdoors with your cat, the temperatures can make both you and your pet "hot under the collar".

Cool off with a popsicle for yourself and a catsicle for your cat. Here's a recipe to try: Mix up a packet of Honest Kitchen’s Pro Bloom Instant Goat’s Milk for cats, put a little freeze dried treat or raw cat food along with the Goat's Milk in some ice trays or freezer molds. Pro Bloom is not only great for catsicles, but it's also very good for your cat's digestive and immune system. This yummy and healthy concoction will freeze in less than an hour. Pop one out and watch your kitty enjoy this healthy, beat-the-heat treat!

, www.cw39.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

35

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

37

One for You One for Me

Cool Nap on a Summer's Day

You and your pet can share these Ice Balls, great for whiskey or add pet friendly flavors and treats then freeze for a cool summer snack your dog or cat will love to lick. www.amazon.com, $18

This bolstered pet bed includes the K&H Cool Bed III, simply fill with water to activate the cool core.

Dogs and cats both love this bed, it's perfect for those hot Texas days. www.goedekers.com, $75

Fido, Go Fetch!

Beat the heat with our favorite picks for Summer 2016's best ice cold products.

The cold shoulder never felt so good!

An Ounce of Prevention...

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The iFetch self tossing fetch toy is a miracle for those with achey backs, as it eliminates the need to bend over. Your pet can learn to catch and return the ball to the drop, or you can return it yourself. www.bedbathandbeyond.com, $116

Wrap it Up

Skin cancer and sun burns are not just human problems. Protect your buddy and prevent future health issues by using sunscreen when outdoors, on noses and other exposed areas.

Espree wipes make it easy. www.petco.com, $10

You know how your dog likes to shake, rattle and roll after a good romp in the pool, bath, or puddles? The Snuggly Dog microfiber towel secures around your dog, and stays on until you remove it. No more wet dog spots on the couch! www.thesnugglydog.com, $45

Got it Made In the Shade

Multisensory Experience

The Pawhut elevated bed lets air flow below and keeps your pet off the ground. Don't forget a matching shaded cover. www.walmart.com, $15-$40

The fill-and-freeze thermoplastic rubber toys from Cool Pup are fruit scented and great for teething puppies and light chewers. www.baxterboo.com, $12

Muy Caliente!

This cool pepper toy is perfect for stuffing tasty morsels into, and at 3" long, it will keep your small pup busy while you do what you need to do.

Bonus: this is a USA made product. www.poochperks.com, $10

Magical Mittens Tired of boring black or beige grooming supplies?

The Four Paws Magic Coat Pet Love Glove is great for lifting dirt, dust and hair, plus it comes in this "wowyour-dog-friends" red. www.petco.com, $13

Get Out Your Summer Swimmies There's no excuse now, you have to get a doggy pool! This folding pool is easy to transport and fill, plus it's made of extra tough PVC material. www.amazon.com, $119

My Heart is Aflame KnineCouture on Etsy makes these hand-sewn collars which can be customized for your pet and comes in lots of sizes. www.etsy.com, $25

Classic Color Modern Style This funky red doggy diner set will definitely jazz up your pet's feeding routine with a design you won't want to hide in the kitchen. www.docapet.com, $119-237

Chill out with red hot items for looking cool and keeping it that way.

Remember, if you're feeling hot, your pet is definitely hot, too.

The Red Queen Your pets can dine in artistic style with this Alice in Wonderland "Red Queen" themed bowl. The online store also offers matching items like bags, notebooks, yoga mats, pillow cases, and even tapestries. www.kessinhouse.com, $28

You Know We're Hanging Tough Everybody is talking about who is on top, and we think it's this red studded collar. www.downtownpetsupply.com, $13 Houston PetTalk Magazine

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www.catlanna.com Cat Behavior Consulting

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Puppy Parent Coaching

(Relieving your stress through a PROVEN system. No guessing)

Puppy Pit Fall Prevention/Early Development and Custom Training Programs Evaluator for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, Community Canine and Urban Dog Test Puppy Partners Pack Socials Program How to Choose the Right Puppy Start your New Year as a puppy parent off right, without guess work.

Helping you raise your puppy by giving you the education, tools and coaching to make your new puppy a success, is our field of expertise.

Helping you prevent the overwhelming frustration and failure many puppy owners experience, with our proven Thinking Dog system, NOT experimentation.

Website

Facebook

Health Eye Opener Be Aware of Vision Deterioration In Your Pet By: Dr. Julie Hempstead, DVM, DACVO and Kate Lawrence Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, www.gcvs.com

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conditions. , While both situations may warrant evaluation by a veterinary ophthalmologist, urgency to obtain a full ophthalmic exam may be heightened in patients who lose vision abruptly.

One of the most common problems in both human and veterinary ophthalmology are cataracts.

...

e’ve all seen it, as our pets age, they begin to show signs of vision deterioration. This is because many pets experience age-related vision changes as they get older… just like people. In many cases these age-related vision changes occur slowly over time,allowing for acclimation to a reduction in vi-

sual capacity if your pet is kept in a familiar environment.. For other pets, the vision change can happen acutely causing observable disorientation, behavioral changes, and possibly ocular discomfort in certain

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Cataracts are a cloudiness or opacity of the lens of one or both eyes. This opacity adversely affects the eye's ability to focus light onto the retina – the light perceiving tissue of the eye that relays signals to the brain.

Almost all pets will develop small cataracts with age, and all pets will develop hardening of their lenses

after seven years’ of age.

Hardening or decreased flexibility of the lens affects patients’ ability to focus on objects close to them, and is called nuclear sclerosis. Nuclear sclerosis also affects people, and is the reason that we need reading glasses after the age of forty. Nuclear sclerosis does not require surgical intervention, but an exam with an ophthalmologist can differentiate between true cataract formation, and age-related nuclear sclerosis.

In patients diagnosed with true cataracts, surgical correction of cataracts is highly successful, will restore vision and return your pet to their normal activities. In fact, most patients who undergo cataract surgery come into the hospital unable to see, and leave that same afternoon with vision restored!

In older

patients whose vision loss/deterioration is due to age-related changes that cannot be medically or surgically reversed, pet owners must adjust to living with a pet who has limited or compromised visual capacity. Fortunately, the majority of our pet

population can acclimate well to loss of the visual sense, as they rely much more heavily on their sense of smell and hearing than people do in order to assess the environment around them. Appealing to these senses to help your visually limited or blind pet adapt to vision loss can be as easy as refraining from rearranging the furniture in your home, utilizing automatic scent dispensers to lay-out a “smell map” of the house, or using commercially available scented adhesive buttons on sharp edges, doorways, and other objects that your pet may commonly run into.

Safety is also important for our older pets who may have vision impairment.

Block or fence pools or ponds, place baby gates at the top of all staircases, and always speak softly prior to touching any visually impaired animal to alert them of your presence. Pets that frequently traumatize their face and eyes on objects that they run into can be fitted with vests that have an integrated soft tubing that encircles their head and serves as a bumper. Most importantly, encourage independence! Continue to take your dog on walks, to the dog park, or on car rides. With the appropriate support and family care at home, visually impaired animals can live a happy, healthy, fulfilling life.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

43

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Health

Spotting Pain in Your Pet 5 Signs To Look For By: Dr. Laura Noaker, VERGI Emergency and Critical Care Hospital, www.vergi247.com

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until the pain or ill health is quite severe.

However, there is good news! Breakthrough developments for treating pet pain are being used everyday to help dogs and cats with all kinds of health problems. But first, pet owners need to understand

Trust your gut feelings and look for these common symptoms: 1. Behavioral changes are a big sign there could be pain. Some pets can become shy or defensive when hurting. If your pet is normally friendly and well behaved, but then snaps at you, it may be masking pain. Besides shyness

that a pet’s pain does not discriminate. Any pet, any size, any breed and any age, can suffer from pain, the real trick is how to spot

and aggression, you might notice that your pet has trouble walking up stairs, avoids jumping or climbing, and doesn’t want to

...w

ost pets do an excellent job of hiding their pain. After all, in animals, any sign of pain can be seen as a weakness, putting them in a vulnerable position. This is a throwback to their ancestors living in the wild, masking their suffer-

signs of pain in your pet quickly. Pains left untreated can sometimes lead to severe stress, lack of appetite and depression which can often cause more serious health issues.

ing to ward off would-be predators. Unfortunately, these traits have become inbred, and our pets often won’t show outward signs

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chase after toys. We can detect obvious signs like limping, but it’s important to watch for stiffness or an arched back. For example, dogs in pain often lay only flat on their sides, rather than curled up. They might be slower moving, sleeping more and seemingly disinterested in things they used to love. Another sign is unexplained accidents in the house. It’s often very painful to get up from lying down (which you also might notice), and sometimes pets just aren’t able to make it outside fast enough.

2. Lack of appetite is often the result of some sort of discomfort. Like sick humans, pets simply don’t feel like eating or drinking when they are sick, especially if it’s painful to walk to the food bowl. If you notice a lack of appetite, it’s important to seek veterinary attention right away, as this could be a symptom of many dangerous ailments including pain in their teeth or some other part of their mouth.

3. Over grooming: It’s normal for dogs and cats to groom themselves, but it’s not normal for this to become an obsessive behavior. If your pet is tending to a localized area, it could be a sign of hurting. Pets will groom the source of pain in hopes to clean and care for the wound, even if there is no open wound present. They will also use this as a way of coping with the stress of pain or anxiety. Be sure to keep an

"Breakthrough developments for treating pet pain are being used everyday to help dogs and cats with all kinds of health problems." eye on the area and inspect it gently.

4. Eye changes: The eyes can be strong indicators of pain in pets. This is true both for eye pain itself and for pain elsewhere in their body. Often times pain elsewhere in the body will result in larger (dilated) pupils, while pain in the eye(s) can result in either larger or smaller (constricted) pupils – depending on the underlying injury or disease process, and whether one or both eyes are affected. Squinting may also indicate pain, especially in dogs. The pain may occur in either the eyes or elsewhere in the body. Similarly, a “bloodshot” appearance can indicate pain in the affected eyes as well.

5. Breathing changes: Pets in pain may have a faster and more shallow breathing pattern or excessive panting for no discernible reason. You may even notice a change in the movement of the abdominal muscles and/or the chest. Both of these sets of muscles are involved in the breathing process.

Cats will often have an increased heart/pulse rate.

The rate often speeds up when the painful area is touched or moved.

Being able to identify early signs of pain can lead to a more comfortable outcome for you and your pet.

If you notice that your pet has some of the symptoms above, call your veterinarian so they can take a look or contact VERGI 24/7 for an evaluation.

G N I DO R OU N OW NG I H T Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Health

When “Multi Goodness” May Lead to Badness…

Are Supplements Necessary?

By: Jennifer Hennessey, DVM, CVJ www.animalernwh.com

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ou’ve made a decision to spice up Sweetie’s diet … will this be good or bad?

Supplements are a hot topic these days and the debate can fill an entire dinner table conversation for hours. Adding supplements such as extra vitamins, minerals, and other additives into your pet’s daily nutritional recipe may prove to be more burden than benefit.

Pets deserve the best of the best when we aim to nurture them, however, they aren’t meant to be supported by various “multi health” supplementation products the way we might mix in wellness additives for ourselves; we can’t stick to a daily balanced, consistent “pet food” like our pets can. When you decide to add in a dash of vitamins or extra goodies, you can actually throw off even the most balanced of meals, particularly when feeding a commercial pet food. That little pinch of “extra” will probably end up being too much, causing an overall nutritional imbalance and

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spoiling Spike’s meal plan as much as adding that one dash too much of salt can spoil yours. Importantly, too much of a good thing will create imbalances in the ratio of nutrients, leading to a more unbalanced diet rather than supporting your pet with a mix of healthier additives.

The misconception that pet foods are not “enough” on their own is a blend of habits from our personal

need to mix things up and eat a rotation of flavors or textures, and results in our need to add more boosts and various benefits into a diet that may be just enough on its own. If you are feeding a commercial store diet, it may not be perfect but, in general, it is considered complete and balanced nutrition for general life stages, which will suit your pet’s daily needs. When “extras” are drizzled into the meal plan, they should be selected or chosen based on a veterinarian’s recommendations to contribute to a medically related deficit when an issue is present.

Of all the marketed products out there, from multivitamins, multiminerals, allergy support, anal gland care, and more, just making the choice of what to select adds more stress when you study the

smorgasbord of options.

You feel the pressure of providing just the right one! Avoid the pitfall of the creative marketing, colorful labeling and beckoning titles that seem to declare your pet as “the deprived one” for not ingesting their product. In general, three categories of common recommendations for wellness supplements that won’t land in a recipe for disaster for Fido or your bank account are antioxidants, joint supplement like glucosamine, or probiotics to aid in digestion and regularity. Again, these selections should be chosen after a discussion with your pet’s head health chef…your veterinarian. If your pet is on a prescription diet, it’s even more important to not deviate and mix up the menu, as you can throw off details that are balancing a medical

issue such as an amino acid or basic ingredient like sodium.

For pets on homemade and home cooked diets, their long term nutritional balance is much more

Save dollars and avoid the overall expense of the confusing array of additives and supplements on sale that can possibly throw off a diet versus enhance it. Focusing on your pet’s

Bring your co-pilot.

Avoid the pitfall of the creative marketing, colorful labeling and beckoning titles that seem to declare your pet as “the deprived one” for not ingesting their product. questionable and in need of professional advice for correct supplementation to ensure no deficiencies or excesses. Unfortunately, it takes more than a capsule of a pet multivitamin and additives like fish oils blended with a meal of vegetables and cooked or raw meats to whip up a nutritionally adequate daily recipe.

Pets are not humans in respect to nutrition… they need no diet rotation to keep them enticed or to keep their palate interested; if anything, mixing meal ingredients up makes their digestion and palate more confused. Pets need consistency in their daily meal plan which will ultimately provide consistent nutrient intake; landing on a single recipe that’s commercially balanced will be the best overall plan when you can do so.

Too much of a good thing may do harm as well as waste precious dollars better spent on a well-balanced diet or even applied as a savings for use for needed veterinary services.

routine diet plan and asking your veterinarian about extra needs your pet may face, will save you from detouring a good dish of delight into a boiling mess.

Consistency is key to creating good habits which applies to your pet’s daily pet food and meal routine. No need to mix it up!

To feed and nourish is to nurture, but additional “goodness” or spoonfuls of “sugar” are best served as sweet kisses rather than unnecessary additives in the dinner dish.

Scout Providing Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals on Galveston Island since 1974

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Dr. Jennifer Hennessey is the owner of Animal ER of Northwest Houston, an emergency hospital whose mission is to provide state of the art diagnostics and the necessary care for support and stabilization of injured dogs and cats.

Animal ER is open nights, weekends and holidays to provide pets with medical care during times that your veterinarian may be unavailable. They are located at 27104 Hwy 290 West, Suite 107, Cypress Texas 77429.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

49

Say N

to NUTS

WHY DOGS SHOULDN’T EAT NUTS

Brought to you by Nationwide® pet insurance

Almonds Not easily digested

Walnuts

Can cause upset stomach and gastric intestinal distress

(black, English and Japanese varieties)

Can cause gastric intestinal upset or obstruction

Flavored almonds are particularly enticing

May contain a toxin that can cause seizures or neurological symptoms

Hickory nuts

Pecans

Can cause gastric intestinal upset or obstruction May contain a toxin that can cause seizures or neurological symptoms

Can cause gastric intestinal upset or obstruction

Macadamia nuts Rich in fat Can cause upset stomach and pancreatitis May contain a toxin that can cause neurological symptoms

walnut poisoning

Pistachios Rich in fat Can cause upset stomach and pancreatitis

kidney failure

Average cost of treatment for dogs’

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Moldy pecans can contain a toxin that can cause seizures or neurological symptoms

Last year, Nationwide members filed

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in claims for dogs’ upset stomach

in claims for liver failure

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Every year, Americans eat

Fun fact Macadamia nuts are indigenous to Australia, not Hawaii

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45,000 tons of pistachios

1.8 lbs of almonds per person

billion lbs of almonds

Why are cashews sold without a shell?

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Cashew shells contain urushiol, which is extremely toxic when ingested

Nationwide pet insurance covers pet treatment costs related to nut poisonings and more.

Get a quote at petinsurance.com

For more pet health and safety tips, visit MyPetHealthZone.com

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Pet Styling

by Sherry

National Certified Master Groomers & CPR Trained Staff

Grooming Boutique Boarding Daycare

Shaggy Dog Rescue is a 501 (3)(c) non-

profit rescue group dedicated to saving Shaggy Dogs from B.A.R.C., and H.C.P.H.E.S restoring them to good health and readying them to go to new loving homes, all dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and fully socialized before adoption.

Please visit our web-site for adoption applications and information on other dogs available, and for donations!

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© PWL Studio

provide support and protection to many of Houston’s homeless animals", says CoPresident, Tama Lundquist.

With so many worthy groups attacking the problem of homeless animals in Houston, the annual soiree must indeed be fabulous to generate significant financial donations needed to help the local charities.

And that's where you come in! Join Houston PetSet at this year's event and enjoy an evening of delicious food and drink, live and silent auctions and don't forget to wear your dancing shoes. Co-Prisident Tena Faust notes, " Houston PetSet has granted nearly $1 million and we believe that through our fundraising efforts, other animal nonprofits can focus on core competencies that help mitigate suffering."

So here's your chance to help Houston PetSet reach their 2016 fundraising goals. Purchase your individual ticket or table at www. houstonpetset.org and spend a fierce and fabulous evening helping animals in need!

H

ouston PetSet is a unique charity in Houston. Some may call them a conduit for a cause. PetSet raises money and in turn, grants those funds to a variety of charitable organizations. With saving animals as their primary goal, this group of pet loving Houstonians provides money to animal causes

through fundraising at their Annual Fierce & Fabulous Soirée held each September.

"Houston PetSet supports nonprofits that do animal rescue, spay and neuter, anti-cruelty campaigns and investigations, animal street feeding, education, animal transport, fostering, and other efforts that

7 pm | The Astorian

Celebrated Guest

Chairs

Reserve Tickets Now

Honoring Don Sanders

Prince Lorenzo Borghese

Tena Lundquist Faust Tama Lundquist

www.houstonpetset.org 832-303-0270

52

www.houstonpettalk.com

with Houston PetSet Gala Guest of Honor: Prince Lorenzo Borghese

When did you realize you had a love for pets?

The moment I had emotions was the moment I realized I loved pets.

That’s why I had so many of them while I was growing up.

What pets did you have as a child?

Dogs, cats, horses, fish, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs and mice.

What is your favorite childhood memory of a pet?

Being called out of first grade because my dog Cromwell had gotten away from home and walked over to my school to pay me a visit.

What brings you the greatest joy in helping animals?

Seeing how they transform from being sad and hopeless to being happy and excited to live. I also like to see how animals transform people and help them through a difficult time.

to create my own not-for-profit to help animals in need.

What would you like to see more of in the animal welfare cause?

I would like to see laws that promote spay and neuter and laws that make it a felony if anyone is convicted of abusing animals. This includes the end to puppy mills.

What made you decide to attend the Houston PetSet Soiree as the Celebrated Guest?

Tama Lundquist invited me to attend and after hearing her passion about helping animals in Houston (sadly about 80,000-100,000 are euthanized annually) I also wanted to help. I believe that when most people are educated about a problem, they want to find a way to fix it. When the problem comes to euthanizing innocent animals no matter where in the country it may be, I want to try and fix it.

Photo by Lexi Cataldo

P

rince Lorenzo Borghese will join Houston PetSet as their Guest Of Honor at the Annual Fierce & Fabulous Soiree.

A well-known supporter of animal causes, Prince Borghese will definitely charm party goers!

Born in Milan, Prince Borghese moved to the U.S. at the age of 5.

His paternal ancestors include the cosmetic’s icon, Princess Marcella Borghese, Napoleon’s sister, Paulina Bonaparte Borghese, and Pope Paul V (Camillo Borghese). He is CEO and Founder of Prince Lorenzo’s Royal Treatment, a high-end bath, body and skin care line for pets.

In 2011, he co-founded and became president of Animal Aid USA. He is also an Ambassador to the American Humane Association and Ambassador to the ASPCA and board member of Canine Wounded Heroes. He has been honored with numerous awards for his animal advocacy work.

© Lexi Cataldo

Q&A

What motivated you to help animals?

I went to a shelter in NYC which changed my life. I saw hopeless dogs and cats in cages all begging for a chance to live. Sadly, many of them had no chance and this was their last stop. I wanted to help each and every one of them but knew I couldn’t and at that moment I knew I wanted

What is the best advice you have been given?

Education is the key to change.

What do you consider your

great achievement?

Being the Co-Founder and President of Animal Aid USA. As a 100% volunteer group, we have been able to save over 14,000 lives in under five years.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

53

Tail End Parrot Breed Comparison What To Consider Before Getting A Pet Bird

A

Avian enthusiasts will tell you that birds as pets are a wonderful experience but be sure to know what you are getting into, including cost. Remember that you’ll need to provide a cage, food, treats, toys, veterinary care and potentially boarding. Consider the amount of time it takes to care for a parrot. Also look at your lifestyle, including whether

.

s with many species, birds come in different colors, sizes, temperaments and characteristics.

Owning a bird is not like owning any other type of pet. They require special care and knowledge. One thing many people fail to take into account is the potentially long lifespan of a parrot.

Parrot Species

or not you have children, how often you travel, and what your work and sleep schedules are like. Do you want a talkative bird or do you prefer a quieter house?

Use the chart below

to help in making your decision.

Visit Adventures In Birds at 7414 Westview Drive to find the bird for you, www. adventuresinbirdsinc.com.

Noise Level

Talking

Companionship

Avg.Life Span

Ave. Size

Moderate

Great

Good

60

9 – 14”

Amazons:

-

-

-

-

-

Blue Front

Loud

Great

Good

50

15”

Dbl yellow-head

Vocal

Great

Good

50

14”

Cockatiels

Moderate

Fair (Male)

Great

20

13”

Cockatoos

Loud

Fair

Great

80

12 - 18”

-

-

-

-

-

Blue Crown

Vocal

Great

Good

25

16”

Half Moon

Low

Fair

Good

15

9.5”

Lorikeets:

Loud

Fair

Fair

20

10-12”

Lovebirds

Moderate

Poor

Good

12

6”

Macaws:

-

-

-

-

-

Blue and Gold

Loud

Great

Fair

80

34”

Hyacinth

Loud

Good

Good

80

39”

Scarlet

Loud

Great

Fair

80

34”

Parrotlets:

Low

Fair

Fair

20

5”

African Grey

Conures:

54

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Houston Humane Society

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55

Tail End

Wellness Care Made Easy VIP Petcare Clinics By: Paige Mazzoni, CMO, VIP•Petcare www.vippetcare.com

W

hen it comes to healthcare, prevention is better than cure, and the same remains true for pets.

The cost of prevention is only a fraction of the cost of treating a disease or illness once it has come to fruition, and early diagnosis can get your pet on the path to better health

does preventative care really mean? Preventative care consists of a combination of practices you can implement at home and services your veterinarian can provide to help prevent disease and increase the life of your beloved pet.

VIP Petcare Community Clinics provide a convenient and affordable way

examination by a full service veterinarian. Some pets (eg. older pets) should be seen even more frequently. Just like people, pets can have a range of what is ‘normal’ for them.

Bringing your pet to a veterinarian at least once a year helps us keep track of any changes in your pet’s individual values, and may help detect some disease processes before they become a problem.

Don’t have a full service veterinarian? Check with the doctor at the clinic you attend, chances are they have a full service clinic nearby.

Check out a VIP Petcare

...

VIP Petcare provides wellness and preventative veterinary care through Community Clinics and Wellness Centers hosted at local pet stores.

sooner.

At VIP Petcare, we provide the highest standard of wellness preventative and wellness care for pets through our nationwide network of Community Clinics. We are on a mission to make preventative wellness care accessible to as many pets as possible across the United States. But what

56

get started.

Vaccination – Vaccinations are an important part of preventing disease in your pet. At VIP Petcare clinics, our staff is ready to give you recommendations for your pet’s needs. We discuss the lifestyle and specific circumstances for each individual pet, making it easy for you to give your pet the services it needs for a long and healthy life.

Fecal Testing and parasite control – Every pet deserves an annual fecal exam and monthly parasite prevention. A fecal test can be included in all packages at VIP Petcare clinics, and

www.houstonpettalk.com

for pet parents to ensure their furry family members get the wellness care they need to lead a long and healthy life. Our services include vaccinations, microchipping where available, diagnostic testing and prescription parasite prevention medication.

How do you find out what YOUR pet needs?

Here are some ways to

requires only a simple collection of your pet’s feces. With that sample, we test for multiple intestinal parasites that could be affecting your pet’s current or future health. Blood tests, run on a simple blood sample taken at the clinic, are also useful for detecting diseases such as heartworm infestation or feline leukemia. Getting these tests through VIP Petcare is easy, affordable, and is the first step to ensuring ongoing prevention is in place.

While our clinics offer a general health check to ensure your pet is healthy enough for vaccinations, we also recommend a yearly physical

clinic in your community.

Let us help you keep your pet Healthy, Happy and Safe. Visit www.vippetcare. com for more information.

Partial List of VIP Petcare Services: ❖ ❖

❖

❖ ❖

❖ ❖ ❖

$18 Microchipping Vaccination Packages for Puppies, Kittens, Dogs & Cats Individual Vaccinations Fecal Test Heartworm/Lyme Combo Test FeLV/FIV Test Deworm Health Certificate

Unparalleled Level of Patient Care Tracy T. McAdoo D.V.M. Lynda L. Case D.V.M. Lindsey B. Hipke D.V.M. Stacy A. O'Malley D.V.M. Tina L. Pilgram D.V.M Phone: 713.802.2366 Fax: 713.802.2490

2324 Shearn Street Houston, Texas 77007

e-mail: info@whvetclinic.com www.whvetclinic.com

Waiting ...

For Yop u soon!

Pick me u

Your new best friend is waiting...

Adopt a schnauzer, and save a life!

www.SchnauzerRescueTexas.me Houston PetTalk Magazine

57

Tail End

Keeping Control

dogs jaws, they should never be left on your dog unsupervised.

Choosing The Correct Collar By: Stephanie Bennett, CPDT-KSA, co-founder of Peace, Love & Dogs, www.peacelovedogshouston.com

B

uckles, halters, and prongs... Oh my!

With so many options, choosing the right collar for your dog can be quite daunting. If staring down the collar aisle at your pet store makes your head spin, then read on.

Flat Buckle Collar - Every dog should have a regular buckle collar to hold their identification and tags. Buckle collars are not correction collars, meaning they do not tighten when the leash is pulled. This may be the only collar some dogs ever need for training.

Martingale Collars Good for dogs that are susceptible to slipping out of a regular buckle collar and is a good choice for everyday walking. Adjusted properly, a martingale collar never

58

www.houstonpettalk.com

chokes, but constructs snugly to prevent escape.

A martingale collar is made with two loops. The large loop is placed around the dog’s neck and adjusted to fit loosely.

The leash is then clipped to the D

ring on the smaller loop.

When the dog tries to pull their head out of the collar, the tension on the leash pulls the small loop taut, which makes the large loop smaller and tighter on the neck, preventing escape.

Martingale collars are an effective and humane tool, but because of the double loop that could get caught on objects or other

Head Collar - Good for dogs that are forceful pullers, dogs with high prey drive, and/or dogs that are highly leash reactive. Sold under the brand names Gentle Leader and Halti, these collars are similar in design to a halter for a horse. The idea being that where the head goes, the body will follow. A head collar fastens around the back of the neck and over the top of the muzzle, giving more control over a dog’s direction and the intensity of pulling. Most dogs need an adjustment time to get used to the feeling of the thin strap across the bridge of their nose. Although head collars are a very effective and humane training tool, it is important to follow all instructions carefully. If a dog is jerked suddenly by the leash attached to the head collar, the dog’s neck is pulled sharply to the side, which could result in neck injury. Consequently, a head collar should never be combined with a retractable leash.

Harnesses - Good for toy breeds or dogs that

may have specific health issues such as a sensitive throat and/or trachea.

Harnesses are also recommended for safety reasons when teaching dog activities such as running on the treadmill or running next to a bike. Otherwise, a harness is typically not a great training choice. When the leash attachment is on the back, the handler has much less control and the dog’s

natural opposition reflex is amplified. “Opposition reflex” basically means that if a dog is pulled in one direction, they will automatically pull in the other direction.

SENSE-ation Harness - This harness offers much more control as the leash attachment is located on the chest. It is also a good choice for dogs that are pullers, but particularly adverse to head collars or brachycephalic dogs (dogs with “pushed in” faces).

“No matter what training collar you decide is best for you and your dog, it is very important that the collar be utilized correctly.” dogs. Often the punishment these collars deliver will result in only a temporary suppression of the unwanted behavior and defensive or pain-elicited aggression can be a common side effect.

Slip Collar - Also called a “choke chain," a slip collar is a length of chain or nylon rope with rings at either end such that the collar can be formed into a loop around the top of the dog’s neck, just behind the ears. This collar tightens when the dog pulls or the handler “pops” the leash.

Slip collars should never be left on a dog when not in use. Numerous dogs are strangled to death each year after being allowed to play with other dogs or left alone while wearing a slip collar. “Choke chains” are called choke chains because they actually choke the dog which can not only cause serious tracheal and esophageal damage, but can also result in increased aggression in some dogs.

Prong Collar - A prong collar is made of interlocking links, each with two blunt prongs that pinch the dog’s skin when the collar

is tightened. It should fit snugly just below the dog’s ears. Unlike the chain slip collar, it puts even pressure around the neck by pinching the skin in a band about a half inch wide.

Also, unlike a slip collar, no

pressure is put directly on the trachea when a prong collar is used correctly. The decision to use a prong or slip collar should never be taken lightly and education and research is a must.

These collars are never a good choice for puppies, aggressive, shy, or fearful

Electronic Collars Otherwise known as shock collars or e-collars, these are electronic training aids developed to deliver an electrical signal, vibration, or tone through contact points attached to a dog collar. An electronic collar should never ever be used without consulting at least two dog training professionals first and foremost.

Most certified professional dog trainers and The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) support a Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) approach to behavior modification and training.

If your trainer is utilizing a collar or technique that makes you feel uneasy in any way, walk away and find another trainer!

No matter what training collar you decide is best for you and your dog, it is very important that the collar be utilized correctly. Training

collars are meant to be used only during training.

Serious injury can result if training collars are left on too long, while a dog is playing, or unattended. Be a responsible dog owner by doing your research and educating yourself. If you are unsure, consult a professional.

You can find a list of Certified Professional Dog Trainers in your area on the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers website, www.ccpdt.org.

Finally, remember that training collars can be compared to training wheels on a bicycle. Ideally, the goal is to wean your dog off of all training collars. If you rely solely on a training collar and do not concentrate on teaching, communicating, and establishing a bond with your dog, you will end up depending on the training collar forever. Imagine if we never took the time to learn to ride bikes without training wheels. Silly, right?

When your training reaches the point when your dog desires to be with you and do as you say, because he loves doing so and not because he is forced to do so, you have reached the Holy Grail of dog training.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

59

Tail End

Texas Turf Masters Solving Backyard Problems By: Rebecca Burwell

T

ired of taming your back yard into submission, scraping your dog's little gifts from between blades of grass, getting out the mower, hauling it around in the sun, and spending hundreds of dollars each month on water? Time to replace your back yard problems with something easier.

A favorite reason for trying turf is that you can quickly wash away messes. Local

pet related landscaping issues. It never discolors, reduces doggie digging, and with proper drainage, a turf lawn will stay clean and dry throughout its lifespan. Plus, pests don't like to live in turf, so you will see a reduction in ticks and fleas.

You can easily replace a smaller portion of your yard with turf. Put it in an indoor kennel, outdoor run, build an agility course, put it in a section of your

Af te r

Be f o re Houston company, Texas Turf Masters, offers a great pet-safe, odor reducing infill. Turf also doesn't require watering like regular lawns, and your pets can play without getting muddy paws.

When thinking about artificial turf for your dogs, the number one feature you need to look for is drainage. Proper drainage will ensure that the synthetic grass stays clean and dry, no matter how often your pets go potty. As far as drainage is concerned, no one can top local provider, Texas Turf Masters, who install a complete under drain system that works in conjunction with the turf's rapid flow backing.

Turf yards are the low maintenance solution to all your

60

www.houstonpettalk.com

back yard, or just dive right in– go with a full replacement!

Texas Turf Masters' product line is lead free, USA made, and has a 10 year warranty. You could have a great lawn all year long, plus reduce your water bill and worry with no more mud, pests, or mowing. This grass IS greener!

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8.6604

Make a Difference

By Honoring A Wonderful Life!

PET PORTRAITS by

Kristel Peale

HONOR A LOST PET by making a tax deductible donation to the Harris County Veterinary Medical Foundation in their name.

Your gift helps provide valuable information on pet medical and humane issuesto other pet parents.

To Donate Please Visit

www.HCVMF.org

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in watercolor or acrylic www.petandpalette.com 713 467-0312 peale@sbcglobal.net

Download the FREE App today!

Find everything pet related near you

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Or visit www.pettalkgofetch.com

Conservation Corner As appreciative supporters of nature and wildlife, we at Houston PetTalk want to promote education and conservation of the world’s animal population. Each month we bring you information on conservation efforts that are of special interest or have some connection to Houston through the Houston Zoo or other local organizers such as the TWRC Wildlife Center. This issue, we are highlighting efforts to save Lions. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

Niassa Preserve

64

www.houstonpettalk.com

A

t the Houston Zoo, we have four lions, including Jonathan, our male, and three females: Nimue, Mattie, and Uzima. Our pride of lions, like all the animals at the Zoo, serve

By: Jackie Wallace The Houston Zoo

©Stephanie Adams

Saving Lions: Pride and The Pride

as ambassadors for their species in the wild. The Zoo is committed to protecting their counterparts in Africa.

Unlike most cats, who are solitary, lions are the only cat that lives in a true social group, called

a pride. Female lions that are born into the pride will remain with the pride for the remainder of their lives.

Males are encouraged to leave the pride around two years of age, and after that, they find another pride to take over.

Lions have always been a symbol of strength and power, being used as mascots, icons, and even idols in some cultures. The truth is, though, lions aren’t doing so well in the wild. They have lost over 80% of their original range, and there has been a 30% decline in their population over the last two decades. Today, there are only an estimated 30,000 lions left in Africa.

That’s less than the number of people who can watch the Astros play at Minute

“Lions have lost over 80% of their original range, and there has been a 30% decline in their population over the last two decades. Today, there are only an estimated 30,000 lions left in Africa. That’s less than the number of people who can watch the Astros play at Minute Maid Park."

Maid Park! Seating is capacity, 40,950.

The problem for lions, and the reason for their population decrease, is people. The amount of space they have is changing, and they are being forced into villages and areas where people live, which causes problems

when those villages don’t have strategies to live with lions, like building lionproof fences for their livestock to sleep in at night.

The great news, though, is that we have partners that are working to help lions in the wild by researching, collecting data, educating local communities, and helping people live safely among lions.

Last September, the Houston Zoo assisted in launching a truly unique conservation collaboration in Africa called Pride

Lion Conservation Alliance at our annual Feed Your Wildlife Conservation Gala.

Now celebrating their oneyear anniversary, Pride is an alliance of six leading field-based conservationists across Africa who are committed to working together to use their collective knowledge and experience to increase the effectiveness of our conservation efforts. Pride’s membership includes the founding leaders of four core lion

conservation organizations: Ewaso Lions, Lion Guardians, Niassa Carnivore Project, Ruaha Carnivore Project; and one start-up project: Lion Landscapes.

You can help save animals in the wild too! Awareness is key to saving theses incredible animals; so share this story, check out www.lions. houstonzoo.org, and learn even more by visiting the Houston Zoo. Every visit to the Zoo helps save animals in the wild.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

65

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